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DEFINITION

What is a split-level house?

Split-level houses are considered two-story homes even though they have three or more floors. This
is because the main room, which connects the basement to the bedrooms, is halfway between
floors. The vertical distance between the two floors is not a full flight of stairs, so it’s not counted as
a full story.

Split-level houses will often have sliding glass doors leading out to the backyard. Outside, there is
usually a patio and a grass-filled yard. In a split-level home, you’ll want to use the patio to your
advantage. For example, Kelly Masonry, a Springfield, PA patio specialist, advises, “When done right,
patios provide homeowners a boost in curb appeal as well as an aesthetically-pleasing area outside
the home to unwind and enjoy. Masonry materials such as pavers, bricks, and flagstone are not only
stunning additions to your home’s exterior but are also extremely durable and easy to maintain.”

Types of a split-level house ?

1. Traditional or Standard Split

The simplest style of split-level design is the standard split. People also call this same design
traditional split-levels, so the terms are interchangeable.

By whichever name, these homes have an entryway and foyer that sit completely on the ground
level. It might be easiest to think of this as the middle level if you’re having trouble picturing how it
looks.

2. Split-Entry

For this design, the entryway and its attached floor space offer a buffer between an upstairs and
downstairs space. In this arrangement, the entry floor is still the middle floor.

There is typically a short foyer with stairs leading up and another leading down just inside the
doorway. Off to the side, there is an entry parlor or sometimes a large mudroom, but not an
expansive living space.

3. Split Foyer
Split-foyer homes sound similar to split-entry models. But they’re quite different. Instead of an entry
room and foyer, the staircase’s landing serves as the entire middle level.

That landing probably has a shoe rack, a shelf for your wallet and keys, and a few hooks for jackets. It
might have a small closet or a bench to sit on when you take your boots off. That’s about it. Then,
the stairs can take you either up or down.

In one typical setup, there is a garage on one side of the lower level, with bedrooms sitting above it
upstairs. The other side of the house often has an upstairs section featuring an A-shaped or peaked
roof, with living areas both upstairs and down.

4. Side Split

Side-split houses are probably the most common and familiar type of split-level house you will
encounter. This design features an entryway on the ground level, just like many other splits.

After entering the home, you’re in a foyer, but the staircase isn’t in front of you. It’s off to one side
or the other instead.

With a side-split design, the foyer and staircase cut off one side of the living space from the other.
So, the house seems like it has been chopped in half by a cleaver.

That separation often provides a buffer between the living space on the entry floor, the upstairs set
of bedrooms, and the basement or garage downstairs. It’s split-level, but with an offset to the side.

5. Back-split

There is also a type of split-level home called a back split.

It’s similar to a side-split model, but instead of the bulk of the house being cut in half from side-to-
side, the location of the staircase cuts the front of the house off from the back.

From the outside, these two designs seem quite similar. And the effect inside the home often is, too.
One possible design features a recessed entryway with a large foyer and rooms to one side and back
of the house.
Then, with a turn to the other side, you access a staircase that goes up toward a set of bedrooms in
the back or down to a front lower room with a large window. The bottom level can also be a garage
or home office space.

Pros and cons of a split-level ?

Benefits of split-level floor plans include distinguished spaces and lower prices

If you want to avoid an open floor plan because you don't like such a lack of separation between
spaces, you'll likely appreciate the split-level design. Since the split-level floor plan typically provides
more stories than a more traditional home of the same size, you'll be able to designate each section
of the space to any theme you want, whether you want to transform an area to an entertainment
room or home office. A more open layout wouldn't allow you to distinguish these areas from the rest
of the home as easily. Consequently, split-level homes also generally lead to more privacy, as there
are more designated spaces separated by staircases.

Also, split-level houses tend to be less expensive than homes with other floor plans. "In many
communities with million-dollar homes, a split-level may be purchased for $600,000 to $750,000,"
Kerry Sherin, a consumer advocate for a home valuation company, told Bankrate in 2022. So, opting
for a split-level floor plan could save you hundreds of thousands of dollars when buying a house.
However, for each person who loves split-level homes, there's always going to be someone who
hates the split-level floor plan for various reasons.

The downsides involve hard-to-change inconveniences

Split-level houses aren't typically considered too desirable, as a lot of people prefer more timeless or
contemporary layouts. "Because many split-level homes are built in hilly areas, the lower portion of
the house is often below grade... Consequently, the appraised value of these homes tend to be less
than a home with the same livable square footage that is entirely above grade," Erik Wright, a real
estate investor who owns a home-buying business, told HomeLight. Staircases are also critical
aspects of all split-level homes, even though they're relatively small. So, you'll need to be on the
stairs every day to get around your home, oftentimes even to get to your front door. This could be a
problem for those with accessibility needs.
Another reason why split-level floor plans can seem off-putting is that the typical split-level house
doesn't include the most open or attractive entrance. Guests will likely be instantly met with two
sets of stairs, making for a not-so-appealing first impression. Moreover, such a specific structure
would be extremely difficult and expensive to try to change. Because the layout is so unique, certain
renovations aren't feasible, especially when on a budget. Before determining whether you're
interested in homes with split-level floor plans, thoroughly think over whether they'd be the right fit
for your specific needs.

2. GUIDELINES

Guidelines in designing a split-level house

Split level houses have unique characteristics that set them apart from traditional single-level
homes. These features make them an attractive option for homeowners looking for
a distinctive and functional living space. One of the key characteristics of a split level house is
its multi-level design. Instead of having all the rooms on a single floor, split level houses have
different levels that are connected by a few steps. This creates a sense of separation and privacy
between the different areas of the house.

Another characteristic of split level houses is their room layout. The rooms in a split level house are
typically arranged in a way that maximizes the use of space. The main living area, including the
kitchen, dining room, and living room, is usually located on the middle level. This allows for easy flow
between the different areas and promotes a sense of togetherness.

In addition to the room layout, split level houses often have unique architectural features. These
can include vaulted ceilings, large windows, and open floor plans. These features not only add visual
interest to the house but also enhance the overall functionality and livability.

One of the advantages of the room layout in a split level house is that it allows for flexibility. Each
level can be used for different purposes, depending on the needs of the homeowner. For example,
the lower level can be used as a family room or a home office, while the upper level can be
dedicated to bedrooms and private spaces.
Split level houses also offer natural light. The multiple levels and large windows allow for ample
natural light to enter the house, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. This not only enhances the
aesthetic appeal of the house but also has a positive impact on the mood and well-being of the
occupants.

While split level houses have many advantages, it’s important to consider some of
the challenges they may present. One challenge is the potential for uneven heating and cooling.
Due to the multiple levels, it can be difficult to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the
house. Another challenge is the presence of stairs, which can be a hazard for young children or
individuals with mobility issues.

In conclusion, split level houses have unique characteristics that make them an appealing choice for
homeowners. The multi-level design, room layout, and architectural features contribute to their
distinctive charm and functionality. However, it’s important to weigh the advantages and challenges
before deciding if a split level house is the right fit for your lifestyle and needs.

3. CASE STUDY
THE LILAC

3 bed | 3 bath | 2,170 sq ft The Iris is ideal for the first time home buyer while still providing ample
space for those with a growing family. The main level features an extended front entry with a double
coat closet, 3 bedrooms, full 3 pc bathroom, and an open concept dining room/kitchen combo
complete with an island. On the lower level, you'll find a recreation room, 3 pc bathroom and
dedicated utility room with extra storage space. You will love the convenience of having a ductless
mini split on the main level, solid surface countertops throughout and a convenient built-in single car
garage. This layout also offers the option for a double car garage
The Daisy

3 bed | 1.5 bath | 1,706 Square Feet This split entry gem is an amazing layout where functionality
meets style. The lower level welcomes you with 3 large bedrooms located a short distance from a 3
pc bathroom and just across the hall from a separate walk in laundry room. Ascending to the upper
floor you will be captivated by the open concept living space joining the living room, dining room,
and kitchen, offering ample space for entertaining guests. The attached single car garage provides
secure parking, along with additional storage space for your seasonal items.
The Hollyhock

4 bed | 3 bath | 2,046 Square Feet The Hollyhock is a wildly popular split entry home incorporating
4 gorgeous bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. Walking up to the main level you will be warmly
welcomed with a large open concept kitchen joining the dining and living room. Conveniently
located just down the hall is the primary bedroom complete with a walk-in closet, and 3pc ensuite.
The lower level is designed with comfort in mind, the fourth bedroom, 3pc bath, and laundry will
make this home amazing for extended family staying over. There is also a large double garage with a
separate utility/storage room on the lower level.

REFFERENCES

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